As a business owner or executive, how likely are you to profess your faith and use biblical principles openly in the marketplace?
While the exact percentage of Christian businesses is unknown, a growing trend exists in the marketplace. Successful companies like Hobby Lobby, Chick-fil-A and Mary Kay are well-known examples of companies that have paved the way for others based on these principles. But are you familiar with lesser-known entrepreneurs like David Karp, co-founder of Tumblr, and Anne Beiler, founder of Auntie Anne’s Pretzels?
My company, Victory Bolt & Specialty, was a little-known company that thrived by using biblical principles of integrity and transparency with my team, customers. vendors and community. Victory and many others have achieved success through hard work, dedication, innovative ideas, and… faith in God.
At its core, faith is a power that drives us to take risks and take action in the face of fear. It’s not always easy to do something out of our comfort zone—it takes strength and courage. However, faith in God as business owners can be an invaluable asset that helps us progress in the marketplace like nothing else.
When we also have faith in our abilities, we’re more likely to take risks and develop innovative strategies to help them grow our businesses and careers. By believing in ourselves and the potential of our ventures, we can overcome any financial or ideological barriers they may face.
But, it’s important to remember that having faith doesn’t mean taking chances without any thought or preparation; learn about your products, services, industry, and customer base inside and out. Doing your due diligence is critical to success, so research, plan, strategize and pivot as needed.
In today’s fast-paced and competitive business world, focusing solely on profit and growth can be tempting. But by embracing faith-based principles, such as love, kindness, honesty, integrity, and trust, entrepreneurs can create a strong foundation for long-term relationships with customers and employees, and their financial side will prosper.
Successful business owners are practicing countless examples of faith-based teachings. For instance, some apply the principles of hard work and humility from Proverbs 31 in their day-to-day operations. Others may use verses from the Bible to provide a source of strength during difficult times, like Phil 4:13 that reads, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
My life verse is and has always been Isaiah 40:31, which says, “But those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.” This verse gave me the power I needed on the toughest days to draw strength from waiting on God through prayer. My business and leadership skills were better because of it.
When faith-based strategies or practices are used, business owners tend to trust that their decisions and actions reflect God’s will; by trusting that their faith in God will guide them, they can be empowered to make the best decisions for their business and find success.
Faith-based business principles can also be beneficial when building relationships. They tend to incorporate values of love, kindness, honesty, integrity and faith into their customer service practices, which sets us apart from many of our competitors. We establish long-term relationships and build trust by demonstrating these qualities to customers.
Leaders, especially at higher levels, often feel alone. By having like-minded and diversity around us, we can find strength in our journey and be encouraged to take positive steps forward. This is invaluable because it helps open the door to new opportunities and resources to help us grow personally and professionally.
Moreover, these businesses are more likely to seek help and guidance. Mastermind groups are a great way to build relationships with other entrepreneurs and executives. These groups provide support, advice, accountability, and motivation to help us succeed.
Incorporating biblical principles into business practices can ensure fair treatment and full participation for all individuals, regardless of their identity or disability. (DEI) As Christian leaders, we are responsible for creating a culture that values and respects all people. Here are some strategies to achieve this:
1. **Respectful Environment** Foster a work culture that respects and values diversity. Ensure that all employees feel welcomed, respected, and included regardless of their religious beliefs.
2. **Open Dialogue** Encourage open dialogue and employee communication. Organizing diversity training creates opportunities for learning and understanding.
3. **Ethical Business Practices** Conduct business ethically and with integrity, aligning with universal honesty, fairness, and compassion principles. This demonstrates a commitment to values that transcend religious boundaries and foster trust among all stakeholders.
4. **Community Engagement** Engage with the broader community in ways that promote inclusivity and unity. Support initiatives and organizations that promote diversity, equality, and social justice, demonstrating your business’s commitment to inclusivity beyond the workplace.
5. **Respect for Individual Beliefs** Respect the personal beliefs and boundaries of your customers and clients and focus on providing excellent products or services that meet diverse needs.
So, as Christian business leaders, let us not shy away from professing our faith and using biblical principles openly in the marketplace. Let us embrace them as a source of strength, guidance, and inspiration on our journey towards building relationships. Stay strong and stay faithful and remember to take the time to hear the whisper of wisdom throughout your day.
“Faith first, not last, will lead to Victory In Time.” Renee Breazeale